Research Summary

The goal of Dr. Picciotto's research team is to understand the role of single molecules in complex behaviors related to addiction, depression, feeding and learning. She and her colleagues use molecular genetic and pharmacological approaches to link the biochemical, cellular, and anatomical levels of investigation to behavior. Of primary interest is the role of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in brain function and development.

Dr. Picciotto’s laboratory also studies signaling molecules downstream of nicotinic receptors, such as calcineurin, CaM kinases and adducins, which may mediate long-term changes in behavior downstream of these receptors.

Extensive Research Description

Our goal is to understand the role of single molecules in both typical behaviors and those related to psychiatric illness. We use molecular genetic and pharmacological approaches to link the biochemical, cellular, and anatomical levels of investigation to behavior. A primary focus is the role of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in brain development and function.

We are also interested in signaling molecules downstream of nicotinic receptors that may mediate long-term changes in behavior following receptor activation. Ultimately, integration of studies at the molecular, cellular, and systems levels will be necessary to understand the neurobiological basis for expression and plasticity of complex behaviors.

Developmental role of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in cortico-thalamic circuits and related behavior

Intracellular signaling pathways involved in the transition to behaviors related to nicotine addiction

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